Two Visitors Injured by Bison in Yellowstone

One person suffered minor injuries, while the other was transported by Life Flight to Idaho Falls, Idaho.

Photo Credit: Jesse James

According to NPS, Theodore Schrader, 74, and Patsy Holmes, 72, from Heber City, Utah, were taking photographs Wednesday (June 28) morning on a boardwalk at Mud Volcano when a bison approached them. The bison butted Mrs. Holmes, who fell into Mr. Schrader causing them both to fall to the ground.

Park rangers responded immediately and transported the couple to Lake Clinic. Mr. Schrader suffer minor injuries. Mrs. Holmes was in stable condition and transported by Life Flight to Idaho Falls, Idaho. Citations were not issued to either individual.

Officials at Yellowstone National Park would like to remind visitors that animals in the park are wild. Give animals their space and stay at least 25 yards away from all large animals - bison, elk, big horn sheep, moose, deer, and coyotes, and at least 100 yards away from bears and wolves. If you encounter a wild animal in Yellowstone, turn around and walk in the opposite direction to avoid interaction.

This is the first confirmed incident regarding a bison injuring visitors in 2017. In 2015, five people were injured after approaching bison. To learn more about safety in Yellowstone National Park, click here.